By: Susan Finch
Home to some of the world’s most stunning beaches, Marco Island, Florida features a natural wonderland of waterfront, nature, and mangrove-lined estuaries dotting the Ten Thousand Islands area. Marco Island is a paradise for kids ready to run and play outdoors. Give them a recharge and order up their favorite dishes from these kid-friendly Marco Island restaurants.
Marco Island Princess
Set sail on the Marco Island Princess for a kid-friendly meal with two full-service cash bars for the grown-ups. Kids delight in seeing the dolphins splash and play while parents take in sparkling Marco Island views with a Gulf breeze. Join the lunch cruise and dine on fresh deli platters of ham, turkey, roast beef, assorted cheeses and chips topped off with freshly baked cookies.
Capri Fish House
Kick back with the family at the casual Capri Beach House for a tiki hut vibe with kid-friendly food. Get adventurous at this Marco Island restaurant and order the Alligator nuggets, conch fritter, or fried lobster for a twist to traditional seafood and Florida fare. Salad, pasta, and a selection of grown-up drinks including Capri Sunset Rum keep visitors coming back for more.
Sweet Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour
Make a sweet stop at the family-run Sweet Annie’s Ice Cream Parlour with ice cream by the scoop, mouthwatering fudge, and sweet treats. Sit at the old-fashioned service counter and watch the team create banana splits and ice cream sodas for a sweet sensory overload.
Mango’s Dockside Bistro
For waterfront dining with a family-friendly vibe, head to Mango’s Dockside Bistro. Dine on burgers, fried chicken finger platters, fish tacos, 10,000 Islands grilled Reuben and other comfort food with a twist. Kids don’t mind waiting for their meal and gather around the 750-gallon saltwater aquarium while parents sip on drinks from the daily Happy Hour. There’s even an on-site store to take home a slice of Marco Island’s beachy vibe.
Sunset Grille
Step right off the beach and into the Sunset Grille on Marco Island’s stunning South Beach. This popular sports bar haunt features cold drinks, beer, and cocktails along with a kid-friendly menu. Order from a selection of loaded nachos, fried shrimp, or chicken fingers for the kids. Grown-ups can look to the pork tenderloin sandwich, mahi mahi, coconut shrimp, grilled salmon, BBQ baby back ribs, and other freshly created fare for a meal the whole family will enjoy.
CJ’s on the Bay
Dine alongside Smokehouse Bay at CJ’s on the Bay. This Marco Island restaurant features a relaxed atmosphere with an upscale touch of magical waterfront ambiance. Popular children’s menu choices include pizza, corn dogs, spaghetti, and chicken tenders. Adults will find oysters, fried scallops, lobster tail, pastas, and wraps for a varied menu.
Wherever you choose to dine, come hungry to the best kid-friendly Marco Island restaurants. Save room for dessert and order Key Lime pie and other sweets before letting the kids loose for another adventure.
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